Starbreaker

Endeavor #2

by Amanda Bouchet

'Tess and Shade are my new favourite romance couple' Entertainment Weekly for Nightchaser

THEY NEVER WANTED TO BE HEROES
Captain Tess Bailey and Shade Ganavan are still the galaxy's Most Wanted, and with revolution in the wind and the universe on the brink of catastrophic war, the situation couldn't be more desperate. Despite the Dark Watch scouring the known sectors for them, rebel leaders have handed the crew of the Endeavor a delicate and dangerous mission: break into Starbase 12 and free renowned scientist Reena Ahern. She's the only one who stands a chance of tipping the odds in their favour for the first time in decades.

BUT PULLING OFF THE IMPOSSIBLE IS WHAT THEY DO BEST
The clock is ticking. But as their attraction builds and secrets are revealed, Tess and Shade must decide if they trust each other enough to execute this impossible prison break. They could change the course of history, but they'll be risking everything . . . They'll just have to tackle one crisis at a time.

Everyone is raving about Amanda Bouchet's Nightchaser:
'Breathtakingly hot' Booklist STARRED REVIEW
'Chock full of intrigue, heroism, conflict and sexual tension' Kirkus STARRED REVIEW
'Out-of-this-world' Jennifer Estep, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author
'Believe me when I say you need to own this book and anything Amanda Bouchet writes forever' Kate LeBeau, Anderson's Bookshop
'Makes an early bid for one of the best titles of the year' Entertainment Weekly

Genres: Romance, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Space Opera, Adult, Science Fiction Romance, Fantasy Romance

432 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 28, 2020

About the author

Amanda Bouchet grew up in New England where she spent much of her time tromping around in the woods and making up grand adventures in her head. It was inevitable that one day she would start writing them down. She writes what she loves to read: epic exploits, steamy romance, and characters that make you laugh and cry.

Amanda is a USA Today bestselling author of fantasy romance and space opera romance. She was a Goodreads Choice Awards top 10 finalist for Best Debut in 2016 with her first novel, A Promise of Fire.

For more about Amanda's books with equal parts adventure and kissing, connect with her online: www.amandabouchet.com

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Reviews

[Katerina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heists, scorching romance and space rebels, oh my!

The escape to a galaxy far, far away was never more tempting, since the world seems intent on destroying itself nowadays. And Amanda Bouchet gives you exactly what you need: adventure, high-stakes missions, strong friendships and a couple to set the universe on fire (I just hope that her story is not prophetic, and that the colonization of other planets and moons is not the only way to get rid of the pandemic).

❝Break into Starbase 12. Bring Reena back to me. She’ll save Demeter Terre, and the Outer Zones will be free again.❞

After the crew of the Endeavor delivered to the rebel ranks the material to create super soldiers, their next quest is not what they expected. A suicide mission to free a brilliant scientist that could tip the scales in favor of the resistance right under the nose of the Overseer? That seems far-fetched, even for them. But Captain Tess Bailey, Galaxy’s Most Wanted, Rebel and Nightchaser, is always up for a challenge. With her faithful crew by her side, her ex-bounty-hunter and space rogue extraordinaire boyfriend supporting her every step, the ever-growing need to dethrone a terrible despot and the help of unexpected allies, she will set on (another) perilous journey, to free, to uncover secrets, to make up for the wrongs committed in the name of peace. And to face the bane of her existence; the man who was supposed to protect her.

The love child of Robin Hood and Star Wars, the sequel to Nightchaser is equally explosive and heart-pounding. Tess and her crew keep you on the edge of your seat, taking risk after risk, scheming, stealing, fighting, trying to heal the wounds, create a future free of oppression and overcome their personal demons. The action is not-stop. The fast pace won’t let you breathe. And the otherworldly chemistry, the crackling tension between Tess and Shade will incinerate what’s left of your brain cells and enhance the consumption of chocolate (as if we needed another reason to devour the contents of our fridges).

❝Quarks latch on to one another. And the harder you try to separate them, the harder they hold on to each other.❞
❝Are you asking me to be your quark, Shade Ganavan?❞
❝Baby, you’re my quark and then some.❞

I had a blast reading Starbreaker. You know why? Because it succeeded in the most challenging aspect of storytelling. It didn’t just distract me from reality. It wiped it out. I was so lost in this all-consuming story, in the little heartbreaks and big revelations, the perfect blend of emotion and adrenaline, the dynamics of the crew of the Endeavor, that I ceased to be. I wasn’t Katerina any more. I wasn’t this person that hasn’t left her home for four weeks, that is constantly worried about her family, her relatives, her friends. For these precious moments, I was Tess. Shade. Jax. Fiona. Merrick. Sanaa. I shuddered and shivered, invested in their fates, trying to overcome the anxiety for what their future might bring, that I forgot the anxiety for the glooming situation of my country and the world in general. I just grabbed a Grayhawk and shot my problems to oblivion. It was invigorating.

❝Faith – throughout the eons – is believing without proof. I’d rather have certain beliefs to comfort me when things seem too dark than nothing at all to brighten the horizon.❞

I’m closing with a personal favorite quote that resonated with me, in view of the extraordinary situation we’re living. Despair, terror and panic, they do not help you through the day. But faith, in the doctors, in science, in humanity, in God, is a balm to the soul, and as long as we don’t lose it, all will be good in the end. And I pray and hope that soon we’ll fill the streets, hug our loved ones and appreciate the things we took for granted.

*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*

Note: The quotes used in this review are from an uncorrected text and subject to changes.

[Madison Warner Fairbanks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Starbreaker by Amanda Bouchette

2nd book in the Endeavor series. Science fiction romance adventure. Rebels against the Dark Watch and Overseer. A female Captain fighting for the poor. Best to read the first book, Nightchaser, for the extensive world building.

Zero to sixty percent was a bit slow. More romance and relationships. Sweet while building up the galaxy and back story of Shade. 61% to the end was a race of desperation, of fighting, planning, escaping, fear, death, fighting, and trying to prevent the mad man from winning.
The secondary characters have depth and individuality.

This is an ongoing adventure that is clearly not yet finished. I look forward to reading more adventures of the Endeavor’s crew.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. I also purchased a copy to share.

[Maria V. Snyder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amanda's Endeavor series is great for readers who love Star Wars. The series has the same vibe - an Overseer instead of an Emperor - old tech mixed with new - and lots of action. This second book revealed more details about the world and how it works and dipped deeper into the characters. Plenty of conflict arises and the book ended as if there will be a 3rd book in the series. Anyone know? I do know Amanda is working on another book in her Kingmaker Chronicles series.

My biggest wish for this book was another scene between Gabe and Tess. When he arrives, it's a zinger of a plot twist, with all kinds of emotional baggage and angst and drama - good stuff. Then the big question is will Tess go back to Gabe or stay with Shade. What's Tess's thoughts about all this? But none of that is shown, and, by the end, she's decided to stay with Shade, which I'm all for, but I really feel as if the readers missed out on a great gut-wrencher with Gabe. Unless the plan is to have this play out in book 3, but then it's lost some of it's angst because the readers already knows she's going to stay with Shade. Also I half suspect Gaba might be working for the Overseer! Which would be cool in an evil way ;)

[Lucie V. · Rating 3 out of 5]

✅ World-building
🆗 Plot and pace
🆗 Characters
🆗❌ Smut (so much weird talk)
🆗❌ Romance

2.5 stars

This book is not bad, but it is not really good either. Maybe it just wasn't a good time for me to read it but it took me 6 long days to finish it where it would have usually taken me 2 days, 3 days max for a book this size (especially a sequel).

I just couldn't really get into the story. A lot of things happened, action, adventure, intrigues, romance... But I still had to schedule reading time in my day because I didn't feel the need to pick up the book to continue my reading to know what happened next.

The story picks up right where Nightchaser ends and there is a lot of Tess and Shade moments where they wonder if they can trust each other (the whole "I am attracted to you, I think I might love you but I can't trust you yet" thing). It was getting on my nerves at one point honestly, I didn't really care for the characters in the first book, it was one on the flaw and this book did not make me like them more. Tess accepted Shade back, but she kept throwing what he did in his face. At the same time they have these cheesy moments, this relationship just wasn't for me (oh and they talk so much during sex! I just skipped some of the scenes because I had enough of them sweet-talking each other while having sex).

So I guess this is the end of this series for me. Even with the book ending on a high note, I don't really care what happens to them and I don't feel the need to read the third book to know more about Tess and Shade.


Nightchaser ⭐⭐⭐


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[Jen Davis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Let me start by saying that I absolutely adored the first book in the series. I feel like I need to say that because maybe I just wasn’t in the right headspace when I read this one. I… struggled. Not with everything. There were some parts I really enjoyed. But it took me a full week to read this as opposed to the single day it took me to fly through Nightchaser. And I found myself gritting my teeth more than once.

This story picks up right on the heels of the last one. Tess and Shade are together but they are still reeling from his betrayal of her and the loss of two of her crew members. The first couple of chapters passed in a blur of action. And it was too soon. I needed more time to reconnect to the characters. But once I did, well, I questioned a little bit why I liked them so much the last time around. Or at least Tess.

I totally get why she needs time to recover from what Shade did. But she spent so much time throwing it back in his face, I wanted to ask her why she bothered to take him back at all. I mean, either you forgive somebody or you don’t, and she made digs at him so many times, I couldn’t get in my feels at all. Even though he did the wrong thing, it ended up making her feel petty.

When they were not gnashing their teeth about that, they were talking in the saccharine language of seventh grade innuendo. Everything was sugar or dumpling or cupcake. And neither one of them could pass up an opportunity to turn words like hard into a Beavis and Butthead chuckle fest. Like “Hehe... you said hard.” Plus they talked SO much during sex. I don't mean grunts or monosyllables here and there... but actual talking. Who talks this much in bed?

Like I said, a lot of gritting my teeth.

And Gabe was a completely missed opportunity.

But. The stuff with her uncle? Gold. His bad ass bodyguard? Also gold. Jax. Fiona. Merrick. The last big mission and surprising confrontation. All of those things reminded me of what I adored about this series. It totally ended on a high note.

I can’t forget about the other stuff, though. It happened too often and bugged me too much not to acknowledge.

But again, maybe it’s just me. I’m looking at everyone else’s reviews and nobody else seemed annoyed with all the cupcake references. So your mileage may vary. I will definitely come back for book 3 and hopefully it will have the same high notes and skip the stuff that got under my skin.

*ARC provided by publisher

[Maria Vale · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Volume 1 of the Endeavor series but having said that, I loved this even more. Captain Tess Bailey is a Nightchaser, a space pirate/Robin Hood who brings supplies to those oppressed by the Overseer and his vicious Dark Watch. Shade Ganavan is the bounty hunter who betrayed her then gave up everything to get her back. When two missions collide--one very personal--Tess is forced to confront the secrets of her past in the heart of Imperial darkness.

As in Kingmaker, Bouchet creates a heroine who is both strong and vulnerable and gives her a hero who respects both. Their passion has an edge honed by being hunted by half the known universe while trying to save the other half. The pacing is perfect: Plenty of action interspersed with tender, funny moments that let readers catch their breath and catch up with Tess's found family, each of whom deserves a story of their own. (Jax! Fiona! Merrick! Sanaa! Bonk! Okay, a short story for Bonk, Space Cat).

Bouchet imagines a world not of robots or aliens, but rather of people who escaped the planet they destroyed and still cling to its norms. When they say eyes the color of grass, they mean green, because grass on Earth was green. Their clocks are set to Greenwich Mean Time. They study terrestrial species as though naming them, remembering them, absolves humanity of the sin of their extinction.

Starbreaker ends not with a cliffhanger, but with plenty of questions making me anxious for Dawnmaker.

[Carole (Carole's Random Life) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.

I had a really good time with this book. This is the second book in the Nightchaser series which is a series that is best read in order since this book picks up shortly after the events of the first installment. I really enjoyed the first book in the series and was pretty eager to see what Tess and Shade would face in this installment. I found this book to be enjoyable from beginning to end.

One of the things that I really liked about this book is that there was a lot of action from the start. Tess, Shade, and the rest of the crew seem to always find themselves in dangerous situations and it was fun finding out how they deal with each situation. There were times that it was almost impossible to set the book aside because I was so caught up in the action of the story. I thought that the action in this story found the perfect balance with the more romantic and character-focused parts of the book.

Tess and Shade are both characters and I think that they really do make a great pair. They work well together and seem to be able to handle almost any situation. They are both able to think outside the box and will do what is needed to reach their goals and keep each other safe. I liked that this story is told from both Tess and Shade's point of view because I feel like we really got to know exactly what each of them was thinking. It was fun to watch their relationship continue to develop in this installment.

I would recommend this book to others. I thought that this was a really well-done science fiction romance filled with wonderful characters. This story had a lot of action and more than a few twists and turns to keep things interesting. I cannot wait to read the next book in this exciting series.

I received a digital review copy of this book from Sourcebooks Casablanca via Edelweiss.

Initial Thoughts
I really enjoyed this book. This book picks up shortly after the events in the first book so I do think that this is a series that is best when read in order. This story was exciting with a lot of action and I loved seeing Shade and Tess grow closer to each other. I really liked seeing the whole cast of characters interact and enjoyed the addition of a few new additions. There were a lot of pretty be revelations and developments in this book and I am eager to see how things will play out in the next installment.

[Juliette Cross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a thrilling ride! Bouchet is a queen at world-building and creating characters with depth, strength, and vulnerability. And she does not disappoint here. This second installment in the Endeavor series includes a kickass heroine in Tess who fights for the good of others and a complex hero in Shade whose growth and slow self-realization makes for compelling storytelling.

While their relationship is fragile--Tess being still distrustful after Shade's near betrayal, as she should be--their bond strengthens amongst harrowing, action-packed scenes that keep the pages turning. Tess remains guarded, but she can't seem to keep her heart in a box when Shade attempts to prove he is trustworthy. AND when their bond is sealed with sexy, intimate scenes that steam up the pages.

What I love most about Bouchet's voice and style is her ability to weave a gripping story with equal parts heart and heroism while taking the reader on a riveting ride. STARBREAKER is a prime example of sci-fi romance at its best!

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Starbreaker picks up right where Nightchaser left off. I was incredibly anxious to see how Tess and Shade were going to become even closer.

One of the things that I really appreciated about Nightchaser, is that Tess and Shade had a real relationship struggle. As we learned in the last book, Shade had previously been a bounty hunter for the Dark Watch. And they both know it’s quite likely he’d “apprehended” friends of Tess, fellow Nightchasers. Tess, naturally, finds it difficult to get past this. Even more so when confronted with the wealth that Shade has garnered from his past.

Even with this, I was always confident that Tess and Shade would figure out their way. I’m normally not a huge fan of angst, and there’s definitely some here. But I absolutely adored everything about their relationship, especially seeing them work through this.

I did comment on secondary characters in Nightchaser, wishing that they were more developed. But here, I got much more development. Small moments that really defined who these characters were, and how they became the team they are. I loved that I got to see more of their strengths and personalities. There was one moment where I felt like the characters acted a bit recklessly, but it really gave us time to see the characters - who they are, what they stand for, and even the mistakes they make.

I’ve often said that characters and world-building are the way to my book-loving heart. Here the world-building is the background for the story, woven seamlessly into it.

The characters, their choices and decisions, are what really drive the plot in this book. The battle against the Overseer is becoming more and more fraught and dangerous. I can’t say too much, and risk spoiling things. But I loved everything that happened so much in this book - there was action, and revelations, and serious consequences. Another thing I appreciate - even when it breaks my heart - is that there are no easy wins. But it doesn’t mean they give up.

I just realized, this year, that one of my favorite tropes is Found Family. This series is really giving me all the Found-Family love. I think, what made me recognize it here is Shade, he sees the family he’s now with and appreciates them all the time. I love that he loves them because of them instead of just because they’re Tess’s.

I will say, this book ends on a heck of a cliffhanger. Yes, the main story-arc in this book is resolved, but we’re on the precipice of a possible revolution, or annihilation. And I’m worried about this found-family - a lot. I need the next book. Right away, please.

More at The Alliterates

[Cindy ✩☽♔ · Rating 3 out of 5]

It wasn’t bad, but I didn’t love it as much as the first book.

[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love watching Sci Fi movies but I don't usually grab a Sci Fi book to read. This author has proved that I would enjoy that read just as much as watching the movie.

On that note, this should be made into a movie. I would love to see these characters come alive. I could really visualize these scenes as they were happening and I think it would make for an exciting movie.

Just like the first book, this gripped me from the very beginning, we learn a few secrets and we get a ton of nail biting action. There is just constant danger lurking everywhere and that made for a storyline that you just couldn't predict.

That ending was killer, but I am a little confused. It almost felt like the end, but there is also so much more that can happen. I'm hoping I just interpreted that epilogue wrong cause I really want to see more.

[Gio Listmaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not A Stand-Alone!!

"One risk after another. Provide for those in need. Further the rebellion."

While-Reading The Second Book In This Series I Toggled Between Shock, OMG, And FUCK!



A Cross Between Mission Impossible And Star Wars



In This Installment, We Get Questions Answered And More Suprise Reveals

What Is Uncle Bridgebann Up Too? Who Is He?



More Badass Female Characters

Mwende Sanaa Is My Girl!!



Sexual Tension And Chemistry Sparks Fly Between The Side Characters

We Get A Duel POV From Shade And Tess

More Backstory

More Banter

“You’re one step ahead of everyone, aren’t you, sugar?” Shade said with a wink. “Cupcake, we already knew that.” I wiped the memory. Delete. A low chuckle rumbled in his chest. “Not a modest muffin, are you?”

More Breathtaking Planets



All In All, This Was Fantastic, Intense And Frustrating

Answering Questions Yet Opening Up Endless Possibilities For The Next Book

Amanda Bouchet Writing Style Ticks All Of My Boxes

Low Drama/Miscommunication Angst

Angst Outside Of The Romance

Mystery Yet Enough Foreshadowing To Keep You Intrigued

I Will Be Patiently Waiting For The Next Book



Thanks For The Rec And Awesome Buddy Read Erika

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jfdng...

[Karen ⚜Mess⚜ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Starbreaker begins with a slight anxiety atmosphere which quickly leads to full action. Then it gently settles you in a vivid visual on a jungle planet. Snuggled in between all this Amanda Bouchet nestles in recaps of Nightchaser. All this in the first 25% of the story.

Tess and Shade are one of my all time favorite book couples. The connection and energy between the two of them is so easy to fall into and relate to. In a word, the sex is out-of-this-world. Tess and Shade aren't the only love interest. Cupid decided to make a special guest appearance.

As with Nightchaser. there was lingering and some repetitiveness. Bouchet need a bit more in her story to keep us moving forward. However, there were some surprises, and when the action started the cons were forgiven.

The ending was like an explosion. When it was set off I got this adrenaline rush that lasted a long time. I'm still reeling from all the crazy, fast paced action. Right now would be a good time for book 3!!

I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book, so I could give an honest review.

[Melissasfandomworld · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finished reading April 22nd. 5 beautiful stars!
This wonderful space adventure was such a fantastic read. Full review to come soon!


-------
I am so exciiiited for this one! Nightchaser was amazing and I really can't wait to see how the story continues. Read my review for Nightchaser my link text
April 2020 feels so far away right now though, lol.

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[Dísir · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tess Bailey and Shade Ganavan—fresh off their reunion post-betrayal in the first book—have large bounties on their heads; the latter is facing a new life and the prospect of being a rebel and the ‘wrong’ side of the galactic law so to speak. There’re multiple shades of Star Wars in here, but it’s one that ‘Starbreaker’ plunges us into: a rolling journey of ups and downs, unexpected fire-fights, close escapes and world-turning events.

The hardest part of reading a second installment that comes years after the first is that I barely could remember (even though I distinctly remember liking Amanda Bouchet’s breadth of imagination) the teeny-weenie details of the plot and the who’s who save for the main characters. There, I said it. But 'Starbreaker’ does an admirable job to rebuild that singular universe in the course of a few chapters and again, throughout the book to lay out where the battle lines are drawn. It’s not a standalone by any means, and those going in blind without having read the first book would probably have quite a miserable time doing endless catch up in Bouchet’s extensive world-building.

Still, Bouchet excels in handling the sheer number of characters that come and go throughout the book without losing its grounding protagonists to the overall action—and if this isn’t enough to impress, I don’t know what else will. Tess/Shade become the heart and soul of the story—their alternating POVs throughout seem to cement authorial intention—and it's their deepening relationship that Bouchet keeps building on.

There were admittedly parts of Tess I couldn't quite get on board with - her selective pettiness when it came to Shade's past and weaponising it against him - with Shade constantly feeling like he had an upward journey to make to constantly get back into people's good graces did somewhat overshadow the story's brilliance. 

The details are impossible to get into this far into the overall arc, but there’s the ebb and the flow of action, some interpersonal conflicts that mirror a huge galactic struggle, some astounding revelations that clearly do not have their loose ends tied up, because the adventure goes on. It’s deeply absorbing and entirely enthralling—Bouchet has a thrilling thing going on here, and I for one, can’t wait for more.

*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley

[Jenica · Rating 2 out of 5]

Starbreaker by Amanda Bouchet picks up more or less right where Nightchaser left off, with us following the adventures of the Endeavor and the remaining crew members, as well as the romance between Tess and Shade. If you've not read Nightchaser probably don't read this review because I'll try not to spoil anything, but I have some specific thoughts that will give you some clues about how Nightchaser ends.

It's hard for me to review this book, because it wasn't bad, it just wasn't really what I wanted it to be. Bouchet writes a series with a good amount of action, but they're still romance and the romance plays a huge role. The problem for me as a reader is that because Tess and Shade got back together at the end of Nightchaser, I didn't want them to keep circling back to the same problems regarding Shade's deception. As a person who doesn't like deception plots in the first place, I can understand WHY Tess was still frustrated, but that doesn't make it enjoyable to read about. I wish that instead of focusing on Tess and Shade again, the series had been reworked to be about a different couple in each book. And I know that's difficult where you have Tess playing such an important role in terms of the overarching plot, but it just didn't quite work for me. I felt that the beginning dragged and really up until the 50% mark, I could have sat the book down and walked away without really thinking twice about it.

The second half of the book squeezed in a whole lot of plot and it definitely made the book more interesting and left off on a cliff-hanger that has me saying I'll definitely read book three, but the truth is, I'm afraid it's going to be like The Kingmaker Chronicles where I wait years to return to it and then am disappointed by the ending. I hope not though.

Anyway, the book is still a fun sci-fi romp, it's just not exactly what I wanted from it.

Thanks to Netgalley and Sourcebooks for the opportunity to read and review this book early!

[TJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not usually a big Sci-Fi fan and only picked this series up because I adored Ms. Bouchet's historical fantasy series. Wow! I'm glad I did! This installment is just as riveting, exciting and fabulous as the first book. Bravo, Ms. Bouchet! You have won a die-hard fan!

[☕️Kimberly (Caffeinated Reviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the crew of the Endeavor. After the events of Nightchaser, Captain Tess Bailey, Shade, and the remaining crew (Jaxon Boudreau, Fiona Winterly, and Merrick Maddox) of the Endeavor are still the galaxy’s Most Wanted. In fact, the bounty has tripled for some of them.

Together with Bonk, the cat, they take us along on a fast-paced adventure filled with heists, rescues, and break-ins before Tess has to face down family issues and deal with the Overseer.

The romance between Tess and Shade is heated and feels genuine. It is still developing as they work on trust issues. The two work together as a unit and feed off each other’s strengths, especially in combat situations. They face some obstacles and self-doubt, but we also witness growth and see their unity become stronger. I rooted for them and wanted to bat any perceived interference out of their way.

The Endeavor is scheduled to deliver vials of blood to Tess’s Uncle and accepts a dangerous rescue mission. In between they will execute a heist, spend time at a tropical resort and face people from their pasts. They will even bring some extra crew members on board. Like I said, buckle up…this is one heck of a ride!

Susan Bennett did a stellar job narrating and capturing the voices and emotions of the characters within. She brings their emotions, the conflict and the never ending action to life. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superbly done!

Starbreaker, the second book in the Endeavor trilogy, is an exciting, action-packed, futuristic adventure that keep me enthralled from beginning to end.

The Endeavor team are a small band of rebels lead by Captain Tess Bailey, previously revealed as Quintessa Novalight. Tess is a brilliant, intelligent, and compassionate character, the type of heroine I can stand up for and would want as a friend if she were real. Too often “badass warrior women” are caricatures who come across as irritating banshees posing as quasi males.

There is never any question in Tess’ leadership as Captain and the hero, Shade is as alpha as they come and what makes this relationship scorching hot and relatable is how Shade respects Tess’ decisions, these two were amazing as a couple. I really appreciate that Bouchet doesn’t fall back on tired romance tropes as high angst or manufactured conflict.

Starbreaker is plot and character driven. The story is a perfect balance of action, adventure, loyalty, friendships, and dedication to mission. I’m looking forward to the third book to round out the trilogy.

Bravo to Amanda Bouchet for delivering an intelligent, well-written action adventure.

[Romantically Inclined Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's so rare that a sequel is even better than the first book in a series, but somehow Starbreaker managed to outdo Nightchaser. Maybe it's because the hero and heroine are securely together which means there's sexual tension without that insane fear that somehow they won't end up together (am I the only one who worries about that in a romance novel? Like... they have to end up together. It's the law. So, why am I constantly freaking out thinking that last little break up is real. Sigh.) Anyways... Starbreaker is sexy, suspenseful, and wickedly fun.

I've never been into science-fiction. Never watched Star Trek. Kind of watched Star Wars (the original trilogy because Luke had my pre-teen insides all twisted up for reasons I totally understand now, but didn't back then). I watched The Thing and really liked it, but that's because I love horror movies. But, anyways, when I read Nightchaser that all changed because I fell stupidly in love with Tess and Shade and their entire galaxy.

I love a heroine with a tragic backstory, and even better when it's the world's best kept secret. Tess is strong and smart and brave. She's everything that a space heroine should be. A courageous captain out on a mission to save the galaxy from the horrifying Overseer. And Shade is amazing. I would break a thousand intergalactic laws just to have that handsome ex-bounty hunter arresting me. He threw away everything he'd ever worked for to have the woman of his dreams and isn't that all we want as romance readers? Insert intense heart-fluttering here.

And who knew I'd be so freaking invested in the secondary characters! Stubborn, heartbroken Jax and the brilliant botanist Fiona are going to haunt my dreams. Why is he being so difficult!? Why????

Anyways, if space odysseys, fighting the ultimate bad guys, powerful heroines, and strong, sexy heroes are you thing, then you need to go pick up the first in this series and then wait until April 2020 for this beauty to come out. An epic series, to be sure.

**This book was provided free in exchange for a review (but full disclosure I begged and pleaded for it because Bouchet is amazing). This review is copied from my romance novel review blog: romanticallyinclinedreviews.com

[FV Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review originally posted at https://smexybooks.com/2020/04/angela...

Y’all. This was good. So, so good. Like grab you from the first page and keep you reading right up until the last page good. Like stay up until 2:30 in the morning good. (Yes, I did that.) I really enjoyed the first book in the series and was super excited for this next installment, but Ms. Bouchet takes this series to the next level in Starbreaker.

For starters, the when the book opens the Nightchaser crew of the Endeavor are making a pit stop on an out of the way planet to meet up with a mysterious man for REASONS. The task he asks them to complete is so dangerous that Tess and company are hesitant, but ultimately willing to do what they must to help the rebellion.

And then, to my surprise and delight, in only the second chapter, the adrenalin rush begins.

The main plot arc of the resistance and the Endeavor crew, led by Tess, fighting the evil empire and Tess’s “father”, the villainous overlord, is advanced quite a bit and there are a heck of a lot of new revelations regarding Tess’s childhood and upbringing. The worldbuilding is really well done and I enjoyed seeing it broaden even more as this author continues to add new adventures in new settings.

Don’t forget this is very much a romance and the relationship between Shade and Tess continues to deepen and grow, despite Shade’s betrayals from book one. He is willing to do whatever he must to make amends and prove to Tess that he can be trusted. There are some pretty satisfying sexy times and this couple absolutely works for me. I ADORE THEM. I also love that in any given scene I’m not sure who is going to save whom, because they are both bad asses.

But Tess and Shade aren’t alone and I absolutely must mention the amazingness of the crew of the Endeavor. Each secondary character is so well drawn, I care about them. I want good things for them and I’m all aboard for them to pair off and live out there own HEAs.

I would love to go on and on, but suffice it to say, everything about this series is captivating. I absolutely, positively can not wait to find out what happens next.

Final grade- A

[Lynn Latimer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captain Tess Bailey and Shade Ganavan have a monumental task rescuing a scientist, Reena Ahem, whose work is vital to a ruined planet that the seriously evil Overseer poisoned. Even if they can break into Starbase 12, where the Overseer often resides, the odds are not in their favor to complete this critical mission. For the crew of the Endeavor, help comes from an unexpected source with Tess learning that much of what she thought was real about her past is shockingly not true.

Tess and Shade are taking some important steps in their relationship hindered by the fact Shade had nearly betrayed Tess to her enemies. He is still earning her trust back and though Tess has strong feelings for Shade, her heart remains guarded after all her life’s treacheries. Shade came to realize the thing he had wanted most desperately was killing his soul. Shade leaves his old life behind knowing it is worth all he has sacrificed for Tess and her cause. Shade and Tess have quite the adventure on a jungle planet where they have been coerced into meeting her uncle, the enigmatic Nathanial Bridgebane, whom Tess has a myriad of feelings for, mostly negative at the outset. Besides the stress of planning the rescue, another mission has some interesting surprises that once again throw Tess into a whirlwind of danger challenging all her talents, some of which are quite unexpected and a new emotional wrench.

The seemingly overwhelming odds against Tess, Shade, and the rebel forces creates quite a heart-pounding, riveting, and exciting story that will keep readers engrossed and engaged in this tale. There is so much goodness in the story; the pacing is spot on and the emotions truly heartfelt which is the perfect mix of action, adventure, and romance to send the reader soaring high into the galaxy along with the crew of the Endeavor. This second book is not only very well done, but will please everyone who enjoyed NIGHTCHASER leaving them excited for the next in the series, DAWNMAKER.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Amanda Bouchet and this new series is really good. This is the second book in the series and is told from alternating points of view between Tess and Shade. I really enjoyed it.

[Bookphenomena (Micky) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The world of the Endeavor is one that I’m fully on board with. I really enjoyed being back with Tess, Shade, Jax and Merrick in particular. This crew are a family, found family and I have all the needy vibes now for book three.

As with book one, this was a fast-paced read, for all nearly 500 pages of it. Sometimes, I felt like I had to hold on tight with the drama and I let it sweep me along; that’s not a negative, just a sense of the tension this read brings.

I knew in book one that there was something fishy about Uncle Nate, so his storyline in Starbreaker didn’t surprise me and I liked where it was going but I’m gonna need that conclusion from book three. Shade and Tess gave me life and I enjoyed the development of something deeper from them. As with book one, I didn’t always gel with the on-page steam.

Close? It was all I could do not not flinch. I didn’t want close. I wanted fucking combined.

Bonk, the ship’s cat was just a delight, I’m such a sucker for animal companions. When he was in the story, I was at 100% attention. I could have done with a bit more of him.

Bonk followed her out like Tess was the comet and he was the tail that trailed behind her.

This is definitely sci-fi that’s heavy on the romance but I’ve found a world and family that I’m invested in and eager for the conclusion.

Thank you to Piatkus for the finished review copy.

This review can be found on A Take From Two Cities Blog.

[Marta Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four and a half
If you enjoyed Nightchaser than you will be overjoyed to discover that this book is even better ! Tess and Shade are a couple who are making great strides in their relationship but it's never going to be easy as Shade nearly betrayed Tess before. Still they are both learning what it really means to trust each other and their latest job of rescuing a scientist has them facing quite the grand adventure ! If Tess had doubts about Shade then they are nothing compared to her conflicting feelings about her uncle but they made a deal and she just needs to remain free long enough to meet him . Learning that an old friend is also being held captive with the scientist only further fuels the need that Tess has to foil her father's cruel plans but fate hasn't quite finished with Tess and Shade because there's someone coming into their lives who was thought dead and won't that put the cat amongst the pigeons !
There's a lot going on here and its not just the central couple with problems so it was fun getting caught up with all these characters. No obvious betrayal here although there is an incident that very nearly derailed well laid plans but for this reader it was the second half of the book that really upped the game. Expect lots of action, revelations and passion but most of all expect to be thoroughly entertained by this the second instalment of this sci fi space opera
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair

[Lady Heather]

Publication Date: April 28, 2020



"I'm voluntarily reading an ARC of this book which has been provided by the publisher via Netgalley."

[Betül · Rating 4 out of 5]

**ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review**


Starbreaker continues the story of Tess Bailey, who is a very fierce heroine. Like the previous book Nightchaser, this one is also action-packed, romantic at the right moments, and suspenseful. The trust between Tess and her love interest Shade was broken, but they both are trying to deal with them in this book. I loved seeing them grow stronger as individuals and as a couple. They are such a great and strong match. I also enjoyed getting to know all the side-characters better. They elevate the story so much and the interaction between them is phenomenal. There are a couple of secrets uncovered that I saw coming, but the author still managed to keep me on my toes.

I don't read a lot of sci-fi (romance) novels, because I am afraid of the very intricate world building taking over the story/plot. But Amanda Bouchet has done a great job with this series, because everything is explained really well, and it is very easy to understand. So I would recommend romance readers who haven't dived into sci-fi to give this series a chance. I think Starbreaker was a great addition to the Endeavor series, and the ending has me excited to see what will happen next. I love the characters and I look forward to seeing them grow even more and see what danger they will face next.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did not think Starbreaker would be even better than the amazing Nightchaser, let’s just say I was thrilled with this book! Bouchet has written a fun, exciting, nail biting, epic, space odyssey that will blow you away.

Captain Quintessa “Tess” Bailey is our heroine and was Shade Ganavan’s bounty in Nightchaser. Struggling with the new relationship dynamics after the initial betrayal then turns around, Shade must win back Tess’s trust while they traverse the treachery of the Overseer and his Dark Watch.

Utterly enthralling! Starbreaker was perfectly paced with lots of heat, snarky humor, and plenty of meaty storytelling. Overall, a fantastic read for me.

I received this ARC copy of Starbreaker from SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca. This is my honest and voluntary review. Starbreaker is set for publication April 28, 2020.

My Rating: 5 stars
Written by: Amanda Bouchet
Series: Nightchaser (Book 2)
Mass Market Paperback: 448 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (April 28, 2020)
ISBN-10: 1492667161
ISBN-13: 978-1492667162
Genre: Scifi | Space Romance

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Starbreaker-Ni...
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/star...

[Cassia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Eventhough, I hadn't read the first one, I didn't feel lost at all as there were lots of hints to what had happened in the first book so I had a good idea of the character's background. I loved the crew dynamic and the characters as individuals, particularly Tess and Shade. All the characters were pretty complex and had multiple layers which I loved. I think the dual perspective was very well done. Rhe stakes were really high and I loved the humour among the crew as well. (Hoping Jax and Fiona get together in the next one!) Most importantly, I felt myself reaching for this book, truly wanting to know what happened next instead of being on my phone or something so I think that is truly a sign of a great book.

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bouchet opens up the world, but never loses the heart of her story: Tess & Shade. I didn't think I could love them more. I was wrong. Rich worldbuilding and deep character arcs abound. Be prepared to devour STARBREAKER.